December Author Talk: James C. O’Connell

Dining Out in Boston: A Culinary History, by James C. O’Connell 
Tuesday, December 13, 2016—Noon to 1:00pm
State Library of Massachusetts—Room 341, Massachusetts State House

Do you consider yourself to be a “foodie”? Do you enjoy dining out in Boston’s many varied restaurants? Do you like to eat? If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then our next Author Talk is for you! On Tuesday, December 13, local author James C. O’Connell will speak at the State Library about his new book, Dining Out in Boston: A Culinary History, just published in November of this year.

Dining Out in Boston explores the fascinating history of restaurants in Boston, including those that have long since closed their doors, such as Julien’s Restorator (Boston’s first restaurant), as well as contemporary restaurants, such as the Parker House, Durgin-Park, and Union Oyster House. Included in this comprehensive book are many historic menus and photos, which illustrate the city’s ever evolving culinary traditions, from elaborate hotel dining in Boston’s early days to the trendy eateries of today.

In addition to Dining Out in Boston, Dr. O’Connell has written several other books and articles on New England history and contemporary planning and development. As a Community Planner at the Boston Office of the Northeast Region of the National Park Service, Dr. O’Connell specializes in planning for historic sites, and he also teaches part-time in Boston University’s City Planning and Urban Affairs Program. To learn more about Dr. O’Connell and his latest book, visit his website at  diningoutinboston.com.

At the conclusion of Dr. O’Connell’s talk, copies of Dining Out in Boston will be available for purchase and signing. We invite you to register online and join us on December 13 at the State Library.

Laura Schaub
Cataloging Librarian